Top 5 Reasons to Choose Asphalt Shingles for Your Calgary Home

As a homeowner in Calgary, choosing the right roofing material is crucial for protecting your investment and ensuring your home stands up to our unique climate. Asphalt shingles have become increasingly popular among Calgary residents, and for good reason. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the top five reasons why asphalt shingles might be the perfect choice for your Calgary home.

1. Unbeatable Cost-Effectiveness

When it comes to roofing materials, asphalt shingles stand out for their exceptional value. As a Calgary homeowner, you're likely looking for a roofing solution that offers quality without breaking the bank. Asphalt shingles deliver on both fronts.

Affordable Initial Investment

Compared to other roofing materials like metal, slate, or cedar shakes, asphalt shingles are significantly more budget-friendly. This lower upfront cost makes them an attractive option for many homeowners, especially those working with a tight budget or looking to maximize their return on investment.

Long-Term Value

While the initial cost is lower, don't be fooled into thinking asphalt shingles are a short-term solution. With proper installation and maintenance, these shingles can protect your home for 15 to 30 years, depending on the specific product and local weather conditions. This longevity, combined with their affordable price point, makes asphalt shingles an excellent long-term investment for your Calgary home.

Low Maintenance Costs

Asphalt shingles require minimal maintenance over their lifespan, which translates to additional cost savings. Unlike some other roofing materials that may need regular treatments or specialized care, asphalt shingles typically only require occasional inspections and minor repairs.

2. Durability in Calgary's Harsh Climate

Calgary's weather can be unpredictable and harsh, with everything from scorching summer heat to heavy winter snowfall. Asphalt shingles are designed to withstand these diverse conditions, making them an ideal choice for our unique climate.

Wind Resistance

Many asphalt shingles are rated to withstand wind speeds of up to 130 mph. This is particularly important in Calgary, where strong chinook winds can cause significant damage to less sturdy roofing materials. When properly installed by a professional Calgary shingle roofing contractor, asphalt shingles provide excellent protection against wind uplift and blow-offs.

Fire Resistance

Asphalt shingles, especially those with fiberglass reinforcement, offer excellent fire resistance. Many products meet Class A fire ratings, the highest level of fire protection for roofing materials. This added safety feature can provide peace of mind for Calgary homeowners and may even lead to lower insurance premiums.

Impact Resistance

Calgary is no stranger to hailstorms, which can wreak havoc on roofs. Many modern asphalt shingles are designed with impact resistance in mind, helping to protect your home from hail damage. Some manufacturers even offer special impact-resistant shingles that provide enhanced protection against hail and other falling debris.

3. Versatility in Style and Color

Gone are the days when asphalt shingles only came in basic black or gray. Today's Calgary roofing shingles offer a wide array of style and color options to complement any home's architecture and personal taste.

Diverse Color Palette

From classic earth tones to bold, statement-making hues, asphalt shingles come in an extensive range of colors. This variety allows you to choose a roof color that enhances your home's curb appeal and complements its overall aesthetic. Whether you prefer a subtle, blended look or want your roof to be a standout feature, there's an asphalt shingle color to suit your vision.

Architectural Styles

Asphalt shingles are available in various styles to mimic the look of other, more expensive roofing materials:

• Three-tab shingles: These offer a classic, uniform look and are the most economical option.
• Architectural shingles: Also known as dimensional shingles, these create a more textured, three-dimensional appearance that can mimic the look of wood shakes or slate tiles.
• Premium designer shingles: These high-end options offer unique patterns and shapes for a truly distinctive look.

Customization Options

Many manufacturers offer customizable shingle options, allowing you to create a unique look for your home. You can mix and match colors, create patterns, or even use special shingles to accentuate certain areas of your roof.

4. Energy Efficiency

While not often associated with energy efficiency, modern asphalt shingles can contribute to a more energy-efficient home, which is increasingly important for Calgary homeowners looking to reduce their carbon footprint and energy bills.

Cool Roof Technology

Some asphalt shingles are designed with special reflective granules that help reflect the sun's rays, reducing heat absorption. This "cool roof" technology can help keep your home cooler in the summer months, potentially lowering your air conditioning costs.

Improved Insulation

When installed as part of a complete roofing system, which includes proper ventilation and insulation, asphalt shingles can contribute to better overall energy efficiency. A well-insulated roof helps keep warm air inside during Calgary's cold winters and cool air inside during the summer months.

Sustainability Options

For environmentally conscious homeowners, some manufacturers offer asphalt shingles made with recycled materials. Additionally, many asphalt shingles can be recycled at the end of their lifespan, reducing their environmental impact.

5. Easy Installation and Repair

When it comes to installing a new shingle roof in Calgary or making repairs, asphalt shingles offer significant advantages over other materials.

Quick Installation

Asphalt shingles are relatively lightweight and easy to work with, which means they can be installed more quickly than many other roofing materials. This faster installation process can translate to lower labor costs and less disruption to your daily life during a roof replacement.

Simple Repairs

If your roof sustains damage, repairing asphalt shingles is generally straightforward and cost-effective. Individual shingles can often be replaced without needing to redo large sections of the roof, saving both time and money.

Availability of Materials

Asphalt shingles are widely available, which means that finding matching shingles for repairs or additions is usually not a problem. This availability also contributes to competitive pricing and ensures that you won't have long wait times for materials if you need roofing work done.

Frequently Asked Questions About Asphalt Shingles in Calgary

To help you make an informed decision about your roofing options, here are answers to some common questions about asphalt shingles:

How long do asphalt shingles typically last in Calgary's climate?

While the lifespan of asphalt shingles can vary depending on the specific product and installation quality, most asphalt shingles in Calgary can last between 15 to 30 years. Premium architectural shingles may even last up to 50 years with proper maintenance. However, it's important to note that extreme weather events, such as severe hailstorms, can potentially shorten this lifespan.

Are asphalt shingles suitable for all roof types?

Asphalt shingles are versatile and can be installed on most roof types, including gabled, hipped, and even some low-slope roofs. However, they are not recommended for roofs with a pitch less than 2:12 (2 inches of rise per 12 inches of run). For very low-slope roofs, other materials like built-up roofing or modified bitumen may be more appropriate.

How do asphalt shingles compare to metal roofing in terms of longevity and cost?

While metal roofing generally has a longer lifespan (40-70 years) compared to asphalt shingles, it also comes with a significantly higher upfront cost. Asphalt shingles offer a more budget-friendly option with a still-impressive lifespan. The choice between the two often comes down to budget, aesthetic preference, and long-term plans for the property.

Can I install asphalt shingles over my existing roof?

In some cases, it's possible to install new asphalt shingles over an existing single layer of shingles, a process known as a "roof-over." However, this isn't always the best option. A complete tear-off allows for inspection of the underlying roof deck and ensures the new roof is installed on a sound foundation. Always consult with a professional Calgary roofing contractor to determine the best approach for your specific situation.

How do I maintain my asphalt shingle roof?

Regular maintenance can help extend the life of your asphalt shingle roof. This includes:

• Annual inspections to check for damaged or missing shingles
• Cleaning gutters to prevent water backup
• Trimming overhanging tree branches
• Removing any moss or algae growth
• Ensuring proper attic ventilation to prevent heat and moisture buildup

Are there any disadvantages to choosing asphalt shingles?

While asphalt shingles offer many benefits, they do have some limitations. They may not last as long as some premium roofing materials like slate or tile, and they can be more susceptible to extreme temperature fluctuations. In very hot climates, they may also be prone to algae growth, although many modern shingles are treated to resist this issue.

How environmentally friendly are asphalt shingles?

While not the most eco-friendly roofing option, asphalt shingles have made strides in sustainability. Many manufacturers now offer shingles made with recycled materials, and old shingles can often be recycled into road construction materials. Additionally, the energy efficiency of modern asphalt shingles can help reduce a home's overall environmental impact.

How soon after installation can I expect my new asphalt shingle roof to settle?

Asphalt shingles typically don't require a long settling period. However, you may notice some minor granule loss in the first few weeks after installation, which is normal. The shingles should fully seal and settle within a few warm days after installation. In colder weather, this process may take a bit longer.

In conclusion, asphalt shingles offer a compelling combination of affordability, durability, style, energy efficiency, and ease of installation and repair. These qualities make them an excellent choice for many Calgary homeowners looking for a reliable and cost-effective roofing solution.

When considering a new shingle roof in Calgary, it's crucial to work with a reputable and experienced roofing contractor. CalgaryRoofing.ca is a leading roofing contractor serving Calgary and surrounding areas, offering expert residential and commercial roofing installation, repair, and maintenance services. With their deep understanding of local climate conditions and building codes, they can help ensure your new asphalt shingle roof is installed to the highest standards, providing lasting protection for your home.

‍